Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta has decided not to proceed with its Drumheller project and has turned over the land it secured to the town.
Council agreed at its Monday, July 22 meeting to take possession of the parcel of land in North Drumheller that Habitat for Humanity had planned on building a duplex. In 2016 a local group was struck and began fundraising for the project.
According to an update provided by Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta, at that time, it was thought this project would meet a need in the community and provide an opportunity for two families to purchase starter homes through Habitat’s affordable mortgage program.
Unfortunately, this plan could not be realized. It became apparent by mid-2018 the economics of rental versus purchase in Drumheller had changed for local families.
In late 2018 Habitat for Humanity made a concerted effort to find families that would be eligible for its unique program, including a mail-out campaign. Families purchase the homes through Habitat’s affordable mortgage program.
The parcel of land on Poplar Street, one of the largest expenses for a project such as this was donated by the late Albert Clark. The land has been donated to the municipality for “appropriate beneficial community use to be determined by the council.”
The local committee set out to fundraise for the project and has amassed about $85,000. According to the updates, Habitat has been in contact with the donors and sponsors and made appropriate arrangements. It states some funds have been returned while others have been reallocated to other Habitat projects.
Drumheller residents who made a contribution to the local project and wish to learn more about the status of your donation can contact Habitat for Humanity Southern Alberta at 403-253-9331.
